Choosing to install a solar photovoltaic (PV) system can be the best investment you’ve ever made – but it can also be expensive, so selecting the right solar company is important. Solar equipment is built and warrantied to last 25-years on average, so going solar is a long-term commitment, which is all the more reason you want a solar company you can trust and have a lifelong relationship with over the life of your PV system.
Reputation
Look for stability in your solar installer, such as a local company that has developed a great reputation over a number of years with a long track record of satisfied customers. Inquire if they can provide past customers willing to share their experiences.
The System
There are a wide range of solar PV systems on the market, and the technology itself is going to be a big part of your decision. Your solar PV system can be tied to the existing electrical grid (also known as grid-tied) or tied to a battery system to be off grid. Be aware, the equipment for these two types of system connections differs and will also be reflected in the price of your solar PV system and the equipment associated.
Some solar PV systems generate power more efficiently than others, depending on their design and the type of materials used to make up the system. Be sure to ask questions such as if the solar PV system has power optimizers or remote monitoring capability to ensure the system is producing energy to it’s full potential. These added solar components might be what sets the prices apart when comparing bids, but the overall return on investment of the system will be met sooner when the solar PV system is generating more efficiently to offset your power bill costs.
Incentives
The solar company should be familiar with all of the state and federal incentives available to you, and be able to provide you with all of these details. State incentives vary from state-to-state, so depending where you live, they should be able to share what incentives apply to you. Your solar PV system could be eligible for the federal incentive called the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which is a tax credit in the amount of 30% of your solar PV system cost. It is encouraged to consult your financial advisor or tax preparer to verify if you qualify for the ITC.
Purchasing Options
Lastly, the solar company should be able to provide multiple financing options to best fit your financing abilities. These options could entail; cash payment, financing through local bank, or leasing. To be aware, leasing could mean the loss of receiving incentives.
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